Discovery of new rare tiger population in Thailand gives hope for species' survival

Conservationists have found a new breeding population of the critically endangered Indochinese tiger in a Thai jungle.

Images have shown new tiger cubs in eastern Thailand, giving hope for the survival of an animal whose total population may be less than 300.

Thailand's Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation along with counter-trafficking group Freeland and wildcat conservation campaigners Panthera, conducted the survey.

Until the discovery, there was only one other known breeding population of the big cat.

It is feared that tigers, which once ranged across much of Asia, are now all but extinct in southern China, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam and much of Myanmar.

Indochinese tigers are smaller than the better-known Bengal and Siberian breeds.

John Goodrich, director of Panthera’s tiger programme, said: "The extraordinary rebound of eastern Thailand's tigers is nothing short of miraculous.

Songtam Suksawang, the director of Thailand's national parks, said: "The stepping up of anti-poaching patrols and law enforcement efforts in this area have played a pivotal role in conserving the tiger population by ensuring a safe environment for them to breed.

"However, we must remain vigilant and continue these efforts, because well-armed poachers still pose a major threat."